Liverpool: Jurgen Klopp to make summer swoop for former Arsenal defender Havard Nordtveit

HavardNordtveit is being scouted by Liverpool for a move in the summerGetty

Liverpool are mulling a summer move for Norway international defender Havard Nordtveit as they look to bolster their options at the back. The Reds have been strung with injuries this season, with Martin Skrtel still out with a hamstring problem while the likes of Mamadou Sakho and Dejan Lovren have all spent a considerable amount of time on the sidelines.

The Sunday People reports that Jurgen Klopp has identified the defender as a possible replacement for Kolo Toure, whose contract expires after the end of the season. Nordveit will be a cut-price option at the back for Klopp's men, with the former Arsenal youth academy player also in his last year of contract and would be good back-up to the three first choice centre-backs at the club.

Nordtveit is known for his versatility on the pitch, with the player capable of playing as a defensive midfielder should a need arise. Klopp is well acquainted with his methods, having seen him play for Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga and believes that the 25-year-old will be a perfect fit at Anfield.

Nordtveit was part of the Arsenal squad for a number of years but failed to make a first team appearance. However, he established himself in Germany and has become an integral member of the Monchengladbach squad. Klopp believes that his familiarity with the Premier League and obvious talent makes him a perfect candidate for a transfer.

Meanwhile, Liverpool closed the gap on Manchester United to only three points after a comprehensive 6-0 win over Aston Villa at Villa Park. Remi Garde's men were torn apart as Daniel Sturridge returned from injury to score a goal and keep their hopes alive of securing a Champions League spot.

The Reds are currently nine points adrift of fourth placed Manchester City but have more crucial matters to address, with a League cup final against City scheduled for 28 February at Wembley. A trophy in only his first season at the club will be a massive boost for the former Borussia Dortmund manager, who has struggled to live up to his promise in the league thus far